Want to add vinyl to my system.

Seriously. In fact, based on your budget you could start with a Rega 3 or a good Technics 1200 feeding into a $500 phono stage and absolutely love the sound. 

High end Rega’s are very highly regarded and would be a good choice. There are many other good choices, VPI, SME, Linn.

Just as a rule of thumb I would look to invest around the same amount in a phono stage as turntable so one is not holding back the other.

I would look at used Audio Research, Conrad Johnson, and VAC. Tubed phonostages tent to get the most music / natural sound from vinyl. 

I think its a dandy idea!  Best move I ever made, did it in 2006.

Started with a budget of around 6k and got a Basis 1400 table, rega.300 arm, Sumiko blackbird cart, Audio Research ph5, a VPI Cleaning machine, and record clamp.  These are the essentials you will need to get started - plenty of options out there.  Blew my digital away and I was off and running.

I've since upgraded everything and stayed in the Basis line.

Two ways to look at this imho

1) buy starter gear, all well known ( aka the stuff in the mags at the moment ), maybe used if quality is certain, and enjoy...knowing resale wont be a long process and upgrades are coming someday.

2) do a lot of research, more listening ( travel if need be ), decide what your top budget is and what you prefer, and then add 20% to the budget and go for a long term system :)

In any case do it! Spinning records is great fun.

You can't go wrong with the Rega. If you want a heavy platter: AVID or Pro-Ject (Signature 10 is gorgeous)